Bioparc Fuengirola celebrates an extraordinary milestone: the birth of three giant otter pups (Pteronura brasiliensis), one of the most endangered species in South America. This event is even more significant given that this species is listed as endangered by the IUCN, with an estimated population of no more than 7.000 individuals in the wild.
This birth, although not captured on camera, activated the park's animal welfare and neonatal care protocols. Since then, the Zoology and Veterinary team at Bioparc Fuengirola has been working rigorously and with commitment to ensuring the healthy development of the offspring.
A few first months of risk and peculiar care
During their first weeks of life, giant otter pups are completely dependent on their parents. In fact, They do not open their eyes until they are approximately 30 days old, which makes it essential to maintain a calm and controlled environment. To ensure their well-being, the babies are currently kept indoors, out of public view, under constant supervision via a 24-hour video surveillance system.
“For now, these tiny hatchlings are in the indoor area, as they are very sensitive. Adults also avoid human presence when they have babies. For this reason, and to ensure everyone's well-being, they will be released in a few weeks. It's so important that we've even reduced visits to their indoor facilities to feed and clean them quickly. Having them indoors allows us to ensure the babies are well,” explains the park's care team.
Cameras installed inside the nest boxes and cages are capturing unique moments of family life: scenes as tender as the mother breastfeeding her young and the father actively participating in their careIn this species, the role of both parents is fundamental. The male not only protects the nest environment, but also helps keep the young warm, carries them if necessary, and assists in cleaning the shelter. In fact, both parents have been observed moving the young from one nest to another several times a day, an instinctive behavior that promotes the hygiene and comfort of the newborns.
A future exit to its outer zone, progressive and controlled
Although the desire to see the babies is understandable, their release should be done gradually and always respect the family's natural rhythms. The parents' behavior will be key in deciding the most appropriate time.
Typically, after a couple of weeks, the adults may begin to show interest in exploring the outside area, leaving the chicks in the nest. In this case, free access will be provided so they can return when needed. This transition will be carefully monitored by the park's teams, adapting to the animals' needs at all times.
A birth that gives hope to an endangered species
The giant otter, also known as the giant river otter, is considered an umbrella species due to its key role in South American aquatic ecosystems. It has completely disappeared from countries like Argentina and Uruguay, where pioneering reintroduction programs are currently underway. In Argentina, for example, several specimens born in European parks collaborating with the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) have been sent to the Iberá and El Impenetrable national parks since 2019.
Bioparc Fuengirola is one of only two zoos in Spain that houses this species and actively participates in international conservation programs. The arrival of the babies is a clear example of the fruits of this labor, the fruit of the knowledge, experience, and daily care of the park's professionals. This birth is not only a local celebration, but a global victory for biodiversity.
